Back by popular demand, the Aspen Institute presents the Sharing Shakespeare Series, led and curated by Tom Buesch, PhD.  Exploring another round of William Shakespeare’s plays, volunteer moderators will lead participants through lively discussions dissecting the intriguing themes and characters in Shakespeare that still resonate today. Participants will read one play per month and share their insights and questions to reach a fuller understanding of the Bard’s works.

The 2019-2020 series will take place from 6:30-8:30 pm on October 7, November 18, December 16, January 13, February 10, March 16, April 20, May 11, and June 15.

Fee: $225, includes all sessions, reading materials, and refreshments. Scholarships available.

Click here to register.

MODULE 1

October 7: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
A feast for the senses! Join moderators Roberta and Mike McGowan in reveling in this play’s enchantments and witchcraft.  They will guide us through the humor, the magic, and the music.
Moderators: Roberta and Mike McGowan

November 18: The Merry Wives of Windsor
Encounter and analyze a slightly different Falstaff from the Henry IV plays in this popular Shakespeare comedy. The penniless knight arrives in Windsor and starts courting two married women in hopes of improving his sorry financial situation. Cathy O’Connell and Fred Venrick will address the theme of who is outwitting who throughout the play.
Moderators: Cathy O’Connell and Fred Venrick

December 16: Troilus and Cressida
Tales of love and war.  What’s not to like? A lot, apparently, in this Shakespeare play.  This play gets very little attention, but is one of Shakespeare’s most realistic, skeptical plays. Carol and Ken Adelman will show film clips of this seldom-produced play, and then discuss what Shakespeare reveals about love and war.
Moderators: Carol and Ken Adelman